Ethical Use, Copyright, Library Bill of Rights, Plagiarism, and Privacy

I. Ethical Use Policy

It is the general policy that computer systems and network services are to be used as any other instructional medium. Standards of conduct and use appropriate to an instructional setting are expected of all users. Therefore, computer systems and network services are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner in accordance with the mission of the school. Users of the schools’ computer system or network must acknowledge their understanding of the general policy and guidelines as a condition of use. Failure to adhere to this policy and administrative procedures may result in suspension or revocation of system or network access. Willful or intentional misuse could lead to criminal penalties under applicable state and federal law.

Ethical Use Policy Guidelines

II. Copyright

Federal copyright law sets forth the fair use doctrine and holds that copyrighted material may be used without permission or payment of royalty for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. The criteria to be considered in determining fair use include:
1) the purpose and character of the use, including whether the use is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purpose;
2) the nature of the copyrighted work;
3) the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the work as a whole; and
4) The effect of the use upon the value or potential market for the copyrighted work.

For more information see United Stated Copyright Office site.

The superintendent is authorized to adopt regulations for copyrighted material for instructional purposes including print, performance, multimedia/visual arts, musical performances, video recording, computer software and music. All employees and students are expected to adhere to these regulations and to comply with the requirements of the law.

Copyright Policy Guidelines

III. Library Bill of Rights – First Amendment

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
5. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
6. Libraries that make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

It is the responsibility of the school librarian to ensure that all students have free and open access to the library and all of its resources. The library’s collections should be unbiased and represent multiple cultures, beliefs, and viewpoints. The school librarian will challenge censorship and will ensure that all students’ right to privacy is enforced.

IV. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined as the act or instance of using or closely imitating the language and thoughts of another author without authorization, and the representation of that author’s work as one’s own, as by not crediting the original author.

It is the responsibility of the school librarian and all staff members to supervise and guide student access to system and network services to ensure that each student adheres to the Ethical Use policy guidelines. (see above)

V. Privacy

Privacy is essential to the exercise of free speech, free thought and free association. The right to privacy is clearly outlined in the Library Bill of Rights to guarantee free access to library resources for all users.

In the library, the right to privacy must be maintained. Patrons have the right to seek materials of interest without scrutiny or their choices being shared with others. Privacy is also maintained through the confidentiality of all library records, including a patron’s circulation records.



Sources:
Created by Lisa Lecompte, based on Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, and Montgomery County library policies.
"Copyright." American Library Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.
"Fair Use." American Library Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.
"Library Bill of Rights." American Library Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.
"Privacy." American Library Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.
"U.S. Copyright Office." U.S. Copyright Office. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.